The moment the enormous Katsuyu appeared, the atmosphere on the battlefield changed. The pressure radiating from the massive, gentle summon, together with the vast chakra surging from Tsunade without a trace of hesitation, proclaimed the return of one of the legendary Sannin!
"Tsunade, you..." Jiraiya was stunned and delighted. He could feel it-the powerful companion he knew had returned.
"Hmph, now that's more like it." Orochimaru gave a hoarse laugh, but a flicker of wariness and barely perceptible regret crossed his eyes. He knew his plan to manipulate Tsunade through her fear of blood had failed. Yet he also glanced at Ling, his snake eyes unreadable, as though saying, Your plan worked.
"Shizune, fall back and treat your wounds!" Tsunade's voice was steady and strong, carrying unquestionable authority. With a flick of her fingers, several drops of blood infused with powerful Yang Release chakra flew toward Shizune. The wounds the Chakra Scalpel had cut into her arm healed instantly.
"Yes, Lady Tsunade!" Shizune perked up and immediately withdrew.
"As for you, Kabuto..." Tsunade's icy gaze locked onto Kabuto Yakushi. "Using Medical Ninjutsu to hurt others, toying with their minds... unforgivable!"
Kabuto adjusted his glasses, his false smile still in place, though his body had tensed to its limit. "What an honor to receive such an appraisal from Lady Tsunade."
"Pervy Sage! Let's get in there too!" Seeing Tsunade recover sent Naruto's spirits soaring, and he was about to charge forward again.
"Idiot! Stay out of the way!" Jiraiya grabbed him. "A battle at this level is still beyond you!" He turned to Ling. "Ling, keep an eye on Naruto!"
"Understood." Ling nodded. The Water Formation Wall quietly changed shape, becoming a flowing ring of water around him and Naruto. It served both as a defense and as a restraint to